Chatham House has affirmed its dedication to assisting the Nigerian government in promoting Universal Health Coverage, mirroring the World Health Organization's recommendation for Nigeria to ensure the appointment of competent individuals to relevant roles.

During a Health Policy Dialogue, Rob Yates, the Executive Director of the Centre for Universal Health at Chatham House, emphasized the significance of political dedication in attaining universal health coverage (UHC) in Nigeria. He expressed Chatham House's readiness to assist newly appointed state governors in advancing the UHC agenda, highlighting the importance of implementing adequate financing mechanisms as an integral part of healthcare reforms.

Yates also acknowledged Nigeria's immense potential, particularly recognizing the commitment of Tinubu towards UHC and his efforts to redirect funds from fuel subsidies towards investments in human capital and educational services.

Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, the WHO Country Representative in Nigeria, emphasized the importance of making appropriate appointments, stating that establishing a solid foundation begins with placing competent individuals in suitable positions. He further highlighted the active involvement of WHO in the health sector reform program, aimed at bringing Nigeria closer to achieving its Universal Health Coverage goals.

Mulombo expressed appreciation for the current administration's commitment to adopting recommendations outlined in the Presidential Health Reform Committee report. He viewed these recommendations, organized into six components, as a positive starting point to ensure that the country sets off on the right path from the beginning.

Mulombo noted that the World Health Organization (WHO) acknowledges the significance of involving communities as an integral part of a comprehensive strategy to reshape health systems according to the expectations and requirements of the population. He emphasized that by centering the pursuit of health around engaged and empowered individuals and communities, the commitment to primary healthcare (PHC) is revitalized, shifting the focus from isolated diseases to encompass the well-being of the whole person and entire communities.